Francis Dabre Dabang, a journalist with the New Times Corporation, publishers of The Ghanaian Times and The Spectator, has been awarded in the Business and Economics Reporting category at the 5th Upper East Regional Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards. The ceremony, which took place in Bolgatanga on October 2, 2026, honoured 15 journalists for excellence in journalism. Dabang's winning story, titled 'The Economic Toll of the Bawku Chieftaincy Turmoil on a Region Struggling to Breathe,' examined the impact of the prolonged conflict on businesses and livelihoods in the Upper East Region.
Dabang's report highlighted the devastating effects of persistent violence and targeted curfews on commerce, livelihoods, and economic confidence in Bawku and the region. The story showed how fear and insecurity constrained economic activity, with women and children being among those worst affected. The judging panel described the report as an "insightful and relevant economic report" that demonstrated the far-reaching consequences of the conflict on businesses, livelihoods, and economic activity.
The citation for Dabang's award noted that his report successfully connected a complex socio-political challenge with its tangible economic consequences for individuals, businesses, and communities. The judges praised the story for examining the impact of prolonged conflict on regional development. Dabang expressed appreciation to the GJA and the Upper East Region, stating that the recognition would encourage him to pursue more public-interest journalism.
The Upper East Regional GJA Chairman, Albert Sore, urged journalists to go beyond routine reporting and hold duty-bearers accountable. Speaking on the theme 'Beyond the Headlines: The Media Role in Promoting Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) for Safe Motherhood and Quality Healthcare,' Sore encouraged journalists to visit facilities, ask difficult questions, document challenges, and follow up on commitments.
The Upper East Regional Minister also urged journalists to uphold professional and ethical standards, stressing that awards recognise excellence, but professional integrity is the greater and lasting honour. The minister's remarks emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards in journalism.
Dabang's award is a testament to the impact of his reporting on the Bawku chieftaincy turmoil. His story provided an in-depth analysis of the economic consequences of the conflict, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions to promote economic growth and stability in the region. The recognition of his work by the GJA is a significant achievement for Dabang and the New Times Corporation.
The 5th Upper East Regional Ghana Journalists Association Awards ceremony was a celebration of excellence in journalism, recognising the contributions of journalists to promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance in the region. The event provided a platform for journalists to share their experiences, learn from each other, and discuss the challenges and opportunities in reporting on critical issues affecting the region.
Key points
- Francis Dabang of New Times Corporation wins Business and Economics Reporting category at 5th Upper East Regional Ghana Journalists Association Awards.
- Dabang's winning story examined the economic impact of the Bawku chieftaincy turmoil on businesses and livelihoods in the Upper East Region.
- The award ceremony was attended by 15 journalists honoured for excellence in journalism.
